Reprint Compliments of Men At The Cross By Joe White

Mark 6:1-4

A Prophet Without Honor

“1 Jesus left there and went to his hometown, accompanied by his disciples. 2 When the Sabbath came, he began to teach in the synagogue, and many who heard him were amazed. 2 “Where did this man get these things?” they asked. “What’s this wisdom that has been given him? What are these remarkable miracles he is performing? 3 Isn’t this the carpenter? Isn’t this Mary’s son and the brother of James, Joseph,[a] Judas and Simon? Aren’t his sisters here with us?” And they took offense at him 3 4 Jesus said to them, “A prophet is not without honor except in his own town, among his relatives and in his own home.” ”


images/Blog Images/show/uk4i" src=" " alt=" " />The summer of my junior year in high school I became a Christian. It was the most wonderful night of my life! I couldn't wait to tell my best friend, Wade. Both of us needed the change Christ would make in our friendship and in our lives. Telling Wade couldn't have gone better! The real test was when I went home. It was the most difficult telling my older brother about my new relationship with Christ. He knew my weaknesses best. He knew my many failures. He was so right when he said, "Who are you to tell me how to live?"

But I limped along as best I could. My failures and inconsistencies continue to this day. It's hardest to be a witness at home, but it's well worth the effort! I'll never, ever forget the night years later when that same brother's son was very, very sick and God allowed me to be with the brother I loved so much as he bowed his head and asked Jesus to come into his heart.

My wife witnesses to me when she does special deeds of kindness for me each day. My kids witness to me when they are obedient at times they want to go a different way. I witness to them when I serve them (my favorite hobby). I know I get the best end of the deal.

Home may be the most difficult, but it is and will always be the best place on earth to let your light shine for God.




QUESTIONS:
1. Why was it hardest for Jesus to be effective in his home town?
2. Why is it hardest for you at home?
3. How can your family support you as you try to be an effective witness at home?

LIFELINE:
A family that is quick to forgive and slow to judge is the home where witnessing is easy!